General First Aid Information

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Nausea and vomiting

 

It is important to stay hydrated. Try steady, small amounts of clear liquids, such as electrolyte solutions. Other clear liquids, such as water, ginger ale, or fruit juices, also work unless the vomiting is severe or it is a baby who is vomiting.
For breastfed babies, breastmilk is usually best. Formula-fed babies usually need clear liquids.
Do not drink too much at one time. Stretching the stomach can make nausea and vomiting worse. Avoid solid foods until there has been no vomiting for six hours, and then work slowly back to a normal diet.
An over-the-counter bismuth stomach remedy like Pepto-Bismol is effective for upset stomach, nausea, indigestion, and diarrhea. Because it contains aspirin-like salicylates, it should not be used in children or teenagers who might have (or recently had) chickenpox or the flu.
Most vomiting comes from mild viral illnesses. nevertheless, if you suspect the vomiting is from something serious, the person may need to be seen immediately.
There is currently no treatment that has been approved for morning sickness in pregnant women.

The following may help treat motion sickness:

• Lying down
• Over-the-counter antihistamines
• Prescription skin patches are useful for extended trips, such as an ocean voyage. Place the patch 4 - 12 hours before setting sail. This is effective but may produce dry mouth, blurred vision, and some drowsiness.

Call your doctor if

Call the doctor or go to an emergency room if you think vomiting is from poisoning or a child has taken aspirin.

Call if the person has:

• Vomiting longer than 24 hours
• Blood or bile in the vomit
• Severe abdominal pain
• Headache and stiff neck
• Signs of dehydration